Get up close and personal with Taupo’s volcanic landscape at the country’s oldest national park, Tongariro. Pop in to the visitor centre at Whakapapa Village, the gateway to the national park. Here you’ll learn about the volcanoes, Maori legends, flora and fauna; weather, ski information, and about the popular Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The 19.4-kilometre one-way trail is a steep climb through barren country with highlights of hot springs, craters filled with blue and green waters, and stunning views from a peak altitude of 1,900 metres. Transport from the end point must be pre-arranged.

Phone: +64 7 892 3729